Kongamano la Mapinduzi condemns arrest of Tanzania opposition leader Tundu Lissu and deportation of Kenyan human rights defenders
DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, May 19 –Kongamano la Mapinduzi has strongly condemn arrest of Tanzania opposition leader Tundu lissu last month on trumped-up treason charges.
In a statement issued KLM similarly criticize yesterday’s arbitrary detention and deportation of Kenyan comrades who had travelled to observe the case including former Justice Minister Martha Karua, former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga and activists Hanifa Adan and Hussein Khalid by the Tanzanian government.
“These acts of repression are a direct assault on democratic principles, regional solidarity and fundamental rights of African citizens to freedom of movement, expression and political participation”, reads the statement.
Kongamano la Mapinduzi further notes that the actions not only violate principles of freedom of movement and expression but also undermine spirit of regional cooperation enshried in the East Africa Community (EAC) treaty.
“Deportation of Kenyan human rights defenders who travelled in solidarity exposes a growing intolerance towad cross-border unity and democratic cooperation within the East Africa region”, adds the statement.
The Pan-Africanist and People driven movement committed to justice and transformation says it stands in solidarity with Tundu Lissu and people of Tanzania in their struggle for accountable governance structures and electoral justice.
“We salute our Kenyan comrades who despite repression countinue to extend solidarity and champion the cause of democracy across boarders”.
They further demand immediate release of all detainees for political reasons and an end of targeting of citizens and allies advocating for justice and reforms.
“Democracy thrives when governments are held accountable, opposition voices are heard and human rights are protected, we urge all to speak out against these injustices and support the people of Tanzania in their pursuit of a just and equitable society”.
